Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• What is the Monkey Buffet Festival in Thailand?

• Explore the Berlin Museum Cafe

• The MUST-VISIT Attack On Titan Final Exhibition

• Inked Blessings: The Magic and Mystery of Sak Yant Tattoos

• And more…

Fun Fact

What is the Monkey Buffet Festival in Thailand?

In Lopburi, Thailand, thousands of crab-eating macaques are treated to an annual feast at the historic Phra Prang Sam Yod temple. This quirky celebration—dubbed one of the world's strangest by the Guardian—features towers of fruits and vegetables, sometimes dramatically frozen in ice blocks!

By 2024, the monkey population boomed to 3,000, leading to chaos as they snatched bags, stole drinks, and ransacked homes. The government responded with a mass sterilization campaign, with 1,600 macaques neutered within five months. Only in Thailand could a monkey lunch party be both beloved tradition and chaotic spectacle!

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = B) Sak Yant

Here’s your trivia question of the week! Think you know the answer? Find out if you’re right in next week’s newsletter. No cheating!

Where can pink dolphins be found in Thailand?

A) Khanom District

B) Amphawa District

C) Ban Bueng

D) Chai Buri

News 📰

Blaze ravages Bangkok furniture factory, burns into Monday (Link)

Bangkok building collapse rescue ends; probe into malpractice begins (Link)

Post-summer deluges make their debut (Link)

Big blow for People's Party in local polls: Old-school politics still leads the field (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

ALL GOOD Cacao Bistro & Hostel - is a sanctuary for cocoa lovers. Visitors can indulge in signature drinks crafted from high-quality, single-origin cocoa sourced from various Thai provinces. The calm atmosphere, enhanced by fresh plants, creates a perfect setting for this unique culinary experience. Health-conscious foodies appreciate the locally-sourced ingredients, including Black Pearl fish, used to create beautifully garnished dishes that taste as good as they look. The friendly staff is always eager to share their knowledge about cocoa and help customers fully appreciate their drinks. (Link)

Vitals Thailand - has emerged as the go-to e-commerce platform for health enthusiasts seeking quality nutritional supplements. With their motto "Live life to the fullest with Vitals," they're on a mission to become Thailand's premier supplements hub. The platform addresses a critical need in the market by curating only FDA-approved dietary supplements, helping consumers make informed choices about their health. For anyone confused by the overwhelming variety of supplements available, Vitals provides expert guidance to match products with specific health goals and needs. (Link)

WOLF Wellness & Training - Fitness enthusiasts rave about WOLF Wellness & Training, a premium gym facility with state-of-the-art equipment and an energetic environment. The clean, comfortable space attracts everyone from beginners to professional athletes. Their ice bath experience, maintained at 0 degrees Celsius, comes with helpful staff guidance for first-timers looking to push their limits. Wellness options extend beyond traditional workouts to include yoga nidra, morning yoga sessions, and therapeutic sound baths. The meticulous attention to detail extends to their spotless shower facilities, stocked with quality amenities. (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

The Never Ending Summer - offers a riverside Thai dining experience that shouldn't be missed. Located near Khlong San Pier, this glasshouse restaurant bathes diners in beautiful afternoon sunlight while serving up complex Thai flavors using carefully selected local ingredients. Signature dishes include their Spicy Glass Noodle Salad, Pineapple Fried Rice with Shrimp, and Kanom Jeen Nam Prik. Many visitors claim to have found the best Pad Thai in Bangkok here. The restaurant's spacious layout, excellent service, and riverside location create an unforgettable dining atmosphere suitable for families and friends alike. (Link)

Mezze Lebanese Eatery - Middle Eastern cuisine lovers should head to this restaurant for its intimate, cozy vibe and extensive menu with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. The Hummus Truffle stands out as a customer favorite, though regulars insist that everything on the menu deserves praise. The Grand Grill Platter and Chicken Shawarma are particularly popular choices. The restaurant's welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for gatherings with friends or hosting guests who want to experience authentic Lebanese flavors. (Link)

New’s Restaurant & Bar(Pizzazo) - transforms a traditional house into a charming Italian dining spot complete with a lovely garden. Their large, beautiful pizzas pair perfectly with selections from their extensive wine list. The mackerel pizza receives particular praise, while pasta enthusiasts rave about their Carbonara—described by some as the best they've ever tasted. The lamb chops also earn high marks for flavor and presentation. Visitors appreciate the attentive, friendly service and the quick delivery of their delicious meals. (Link)

☕ Cafes

Berlin Museum Cafe - offers a welcome respite from Yaowarat's bustling streets. Nestled inside a fascinating museum, this cafe’s menu features aromatic coffees and carefully crafted teas, each full of rich flavor. The calm, cozy atmosphere provides the perfect setting to relax after museum exploration or to escape the heat of Chinatown. Friendly staff enhance the welcoming environment, making it an essential stop during any Yaowarat adventure. (Link)

Newtro Dessert Cafe | 咖啡館 (Cafe and Coffee shop) - successfully blends retro charm with modern aesthetics in Banthat Thong. Their signature Newtro Toast achieves the perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Adventurous dessert lovers shouldn't miss the unique Coconut Ice Cream with Egg Yolk—a creamy, refreshing treat unlike anything else in the area. Mini toasts offer a lighter option for those wanting a smaller indulgence. The stylish décor and cozy atmosphere make this cafe a delight for both dessert enthusiasts and coffee lovers looking for a trendy spot to relax. (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

The Parlor - creates an inviting, eclectic atmosphere where modern design meets cozy charm. Known for creative cocktails and a relaxed vibe, it's perfect for unwinding with friends or enjoying a solo evening out. The quirky-chic design adds to its appeal, making it an excellent spot for people-watching. While the food menu receives good reviews, the martinis are the undisputed stars of the show. The vibrant energy combined with friendly staff who make everyone feel welcome creates a memorable experience for visitors seeking quality drinks in a stylish yet comfortable setting. (Link)

The Long Bar - offers breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River, especially from the corner seats on the far right as you enter. The relaxed weekend atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for evening drinks while watching boats pass by on the river. Live music enhances the ambiance without overwhelming conversation. Drink connoisseurs appreciate the extensive selection, including Thai-branded Pale Ale and IPA beers alongside an impressive whiskey collection. The attentive service, complementary snacks, and unbeatable riverfront location combine to create a sophisticated yet unpretentious drinking experience. (Link)

👫 Activities

May 7th to June 18th I 11:00 - 21:00 I Attack On Titan Final Exhibition @Central World PULSE 7th Floor offering fans of the globally popular anime and manga series eight immersive zones to explore. This exhibition celebrates a franchise that has sold over 140 million manga copies worldwide since its 2009 debut. Visitors should note that the exhibition contains major plot reveals and is recommended for those who have seen the entire series. Highlights include the Opening Theatre, Artwork World, Titan War Theatre, and a Thailand-exclusive zone featuring a four-metre Titan head and wall-climbing effects. Every visitor receives a special collector's edition sketch by creator Hajime Isayama, and over 100 licensed merchandise items are available for purchase. (Link)

Social 👥

🥳 Social Events & Networking

May 14th I 10:00 - 18:00 I Make New Friends with Social Coworking @ Ve/La Cafe, Central Embassy (Link)

May 14th I 19:30 - 22:30 I Wednesday Night Bangkok Social! @ Allso Bar Bangkok (South Thonglor) (Link)

May 14th I 19:30 - 22:30 I Quiz Night @ The Royal Oak (Link)

May 16th I 18:00 - 19:30 I FRIDAY MEETUP FUN CUP (Link)

May 17th I 10:30 - 12:30 I Bangkok Book Club Meetup (Link)

May 17th I 14:00 - 16:00 I Kanom Tuai Thai Dessert Class (Link)

May 17th I 16:00 - 18:00 I Weekend Sand Volleyball (All Levels) (Link)

May 17th I 19:30 - 22:30 I Global Socializing in Bangkok @ The Hangover Bangkok (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

May 14th to May 17th I 10:00 - 18:00 I INTERMACH 2025 @BITEC - EH 99 - 104 (Link)

May 14th to May 17th I 10:00 - 18:00 I SUBCON Thailand 2025 @BITEC - EH104 (Link)

May 14th to May 17th I 10:00 - 18:00 I Plastics & Rubber Thailand 2025 @BITEC - EH 99 - 104 (Link)

May 18th I 10:00 - 20:00 I GX on Tour Extravaganza Event 2025 @BITEC - EH104 (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Jessie’s Story (USA - Remote Designer)

Jessie moved to Bangkok thinking she’d stay six months. That was four years ago. She now works remotely as a UX designer, splitting her time between Ari cafés and motorbike weekend escapes to Khao Yai. Her favorite discovery? “Thais have a way of making strangers feel like old friends - I’ve had deeper convos at street stalls than I ever did back home.” Jessie says the slower pace taught her how to live again. “I came here burned out. I stayed because Bangkok helped me breathe.”

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Inked Blessings: The Magic and Mystery of Sak Yant Tattoos

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❤️ Simeon & Nat

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